Acupuncture & Dry Needling

What is Acupuncture?

A centuries-old practice in Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), acupuncture is practiced by tens of thousands of licensed acupuncturists worldwide. The philosophy behind this practice is based on Qi (pronounced chee) or energy flow. Acupuncture is performed with the use of solid monofilament (very fine/thread-like) needles that are inserted along the body's meridian lines to allow energy to flow again and become balanced.

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a modern, Western-medicine technique used by physiotherapists and other trained healthcare providers to address musculoskeletal pain and limited movement. The term "dry" simply means the needles do not inject anything into the body. Jumana uses the same thin, solid monofilament needles as acupuncture, but they are placed according to anatomy rather than meridian lines, targeting myofascial trigger points - the tight, tender knots that form within overworked muscles.

When a needle reaches a trigger point, the muscle often responds with a small involuntary twitch. This local twitch response helps release tension, ease referred pain, and restore normal movement patterns. Dry needling is typically used alongside exercise therapy, manual therapy, and stretching as part of a broader treatment plan, rather than as a standalone fix.

Which Treatment is Right for Me?

The right choice depends on what you are trying to address. If your symptoms are centred on tight, painful muscles, limited range of motion, or a specific sports or overuse injury, dry needling is usually the more direct option. If you are looking for support with broader concerns such as chronic tension, stress, headaches, or sleep issues, acupuncture's whole-body approach may be a better fit. In many cases, Jumana uses elements of both within a single treatment plan, tailored to what her assessment reveals about your body.

Both techniques are safe when performed by a certified practitioner, but they are not appropriate for every person or every condition. During your initial assessment, Jumana will review your health history, explain what she recommends and why, and answer any questions before any needles are used.